Board of Peace urges Israel to allow winter aid into Gaza after floods
The Board of Peace called on Israel Monday to immediately authorize winterization and humanitarian aid into Gaza, citing severe flooding that has affected tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians and created an "immediate humanitarian emergency." The Board criticized Israel's approval process as insufficient, urging compliance with the Sharm el-Sheikh Humanitarian Protocol for shelter, sanitation, and drainage supplies. It also linked delays to postponing weapons decommissioning and transferring governing authority from Hamas to the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza. The Board accused Hamas of failing obligations and endangering civilians through military activity, while urging the UN and donors to mobilize resources. Palestinian-American businessman Dr. Bishara Bahbah noted aid is waiting at Egypt's border, including tents, caravans, and food.